Branching Tree Lab Concepts

This instructional video guides students through creating a branching tree to show species relationships using skulls. It covers analyzing skull features like eyeballs and teeth to determine species similarities and differences. Students learn to construct a branching tree starting from a common ancestor and are reminded to handle skulls carefully. The video concludes with a writing assignment explaining their tree construction choices.

What is the primary purpose of creating a branching tree in this lab?

• To show the evolutionary timeline of species

• To identify the oldest species on Earth

• To classify species based on size

• To demonstrate how different species are related

When examining skulls, what feature indicates a carnivorous diet?

• Flat grinding teeth

• Pointed ripping teeth

• Large eye sockets

• Small nasal cavity

Why might a rodent have eyes located on the top of its head?

• To spot predators from above

• To help with swimming

• To have a wider field of vision

• To see better in the dark

What should you start with when creating your branching tree?

• The largest skull

• A question mark for the common ancestor

• A known ancestor

• The most complex skull

How should you arrange skulls that are closely related on your tree?

• In a circular pattern

• Far apart from each other

• In a straight line

• Close together

What is incorrect about placing skulls in a branching tree?

• Placing modern animals at the ends

• Grouping similar skulls together

• Starting with a question mark

• Implying one modern animal came from another

What should you keep in mind about the skulls while handling them?

• They can break easily

• They are very durable

• They are waterproof

• They are made of plastic

What is required in the paragraph you write after completing the tree?

• A summary of the video

• An explanation of your arrangement choices

• A list of all skulls used

• A description of the common ancestor

How many sentences should your explanatory paragraph contain?

• 9 to 11 sentences

• 3 to 5 sentences

• 5 to 7 sentences

• 7 to 9 sentences

What should you do if you have questions about the lab?

• Guess the answers

• Ask the teacher

• Search online

• Ignore them